The first time I summited a peak was Guadalupe peak, the highest point in my home state of Texas (see photo gallery). Although not incredibly high by most measures (8,751'), it was still the highest I had ever been at the time.

It was a life-changing moment for me, experiencing the grind and the relentless switchbacks to the vast landscape as far as the eye can see at the top of that mountain; that mountain taught me that although there may be difficulty and struggles along the way, there is beauty in focusing not on the end, but in every single step of the journey. It taught me to see beyond what I knew at that point in my life - a turbulent childhood provided by food stamps - to a possibility of what could be, with grit, perseverance, and endurance, one step at a time.

Since then, the outdoors has been my sanctuary, a place of learning and a place of restoration. Those familiar with my journey know that it has not always been an easy one, and I do not take for granted the privileges now afforded to me; but I am thankful for every season of my adventure so far, and how every experience has shaped me into who I am today.

I will be climbing Mt Rainier for the first time ever, and I want to do my part by bringing awareness to the conservation work done by WNPF in WA's national parks, and by raising support to this cause that champions and stewards the wild places around us. 

Please help me help them by giving whatever you can using the 'Donate' button!

I will be sharing updates as I train for this highest mountain in WA state known originally as Tacoma/Tahoma!

The more people that know about Washington's National Park Fund, the greater their impact, so PLEASE SPREAD THE WORD by sharing my page with your friends and family. Thank you in advance for your generosity, it means a lot to the many who use National parks!